U.K. First to Provide VTS Supervisor Training

On October 18, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) accredited south Tyneside College (STC) for the training of Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Operators. The college achieved a world’s first less than two years previous to this, by receiving accreditation for the provision of basic training for VTS Operators. The Supervisors’ course, V-103/2, is based on the model course recommended by IALA. It provides the necessary development and assessment of knowledge and competence required to direct overall VTS operations. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has also recognized the development of these courses. IN July 2000, a Maritime Security Committee circular was produced for the attention of Member Governments on the recommended courses for the training and certification of VTS personnel. The recently adopted European Union Directive on the establishment of a Community Vessel Traffic Monitoring and information System requires that VTS personnel be sufficiently and properly qualified in accordance with IMO guidelines.